Climb aboard the SPCRR narrow gauge railroad for a frightfully fun ride through the dark forests of Ardenwood Historic Farm. The entire family will enjoy a ghoulishly fun ride to nowhere and back on the haunted rails of the Ghost Train. This narrated ride into spooky - but not too spooky - Halloween whimsy is designed for families and has been attracting fearless riders for years.

The Society for the Preservation of Carter Railroad Resources (SPCRR) has made the Haunted Railroad its single largest fundraiser. Located at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, the group is dedicated to the conservation, restoration, and interpretation of 19th century California Narrow Gauge railroading as exemplified by the South Pacific Coast Railroad and the Carter Brothers Car Builders. Their collection currently contains 13 cars, most built by the Carter Brothers Builders in Newark. At the present time, the organization is actively restoring three cars and has four cars in service.

All funds raised at this event will be used for expansion of rolling stock and restoration of railroad equipment from the 1870s and 1880s. The 1-1/2 miles of track at Ardenwood replicates the original Centerville Branch of rail in the Ardenwood area. Draft horses are often used to pull a picnic car on scheduled runs through farm fields and Eucalyptus groves.

Last year, the Haunted Railroad carried 3,500 riders. The SPCRR is asking for community support to continue this exciting event. In order to keep costs reasonable, sponsors are needed for generator and train engine fuel, a popcorn machine and supplies including glow sticks, flyers and tickets. Individuals can assist with setup or help perform in scenes in the Haunted Woods. Donate your time and have fun in the spirit of Halloween! If you are interested in being a 2004 Haunted Railroad sponsor or a volunteer, please contact Christina Gendreau, Haunted Railroad Coordinator, at (510) 796-9164 or toll-free at 1-866-417-7277.

The Haunted Railroad will be running on October 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and 30th from 7-9:30 PM and October 17th and 24th from 7-9 PM. Trains will depart every 30 minutes.

Prices are $5 for adults, $3 for children (3-12 years old) and free for children two and under. The ride is wheelchair accessible. Get your tickets in advance starting October 1st at the BookEnd bookstore in Newark (510) 797-4100 and on Sundays at the Train Museum at Ardenwood. Tickets may also be purchased at the gate on opening nights. For group reservations, sponsoring the event, or volunteering, call toll-free 1-866-417-7277